Recreation
For National Safe Boating Week May 16 – 22, BoatU.S. Seaworthy magazine Editor Bob Adriance has developed a short Crew Safety Checklist.
“Boating is supposed to be fun, so we do not want to unduly alarm our guests,” Adriance said. “However, every skipper should take a few minutes before they leave the dock to share these tips with crew.”
They are:
1. Life jackets: Give a correctly sized life jacket to those who wish to wear one, show guests where they are stored and how they are properly worn.
2. Fire extinguishers: They should be easily visible near engine and galley areas. Take a moment to explain what types they are and how they are meant to be used. Point out any fire port locations for snuffing out engine compartment fires.
3. Flares: Show where they are located and how to safely activate without causing injury.
4. Engine and fuel shutoffs: Especially on sailboats, it’s not always clear how to shut off the engine (usually by pulling out the “kill” knob).
5. VHF radio: It’s very important to familiarize the crew with its operation, how to make a radio distress call, and DSC one-button rescue mode (if equipped).
6. Battery switch: Show the crew how to turn off power in case of an electrical fire.
7. Chartplotter, GPS, and Loran: At a minimum, crew should know how to find a latitude/longitude position with these electronics. Pinpoint its location on the unit’s screen. Have a paper chart aboard, show your crew where you’re departing from and headed for the day.
8. Man Overboard Gear: Show where it is and give a brief explanation on how to use it.
To help boaters learn more about these and other safety related items, the BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water has an Online Boating Safety Study Guide at http://www.BoatUS.com/Foundation/Toolbox.
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- Written by: Editor
Bass anglers have found success fishing Baby Brush Hogs, Maverick Bugly baits and other creature baits. Chatter baits and even some top water frog action were all mentioned this week. Fish shoreline areas with tule stands or beds, docks and walls. Live jumbo minnows are the ticket for a fun ride for live bait anglers. Bass Guide Bob Thein mentioned to me that the key to success this week – for either live or artificial baits – was to go SLOW. That’s tougher than it sounds …
Crappie action was big a week ago. Not much was mentioned this week. We do know that crappie like the gloomy weather so we’re hopeful that some of the west side docks that held slabs last week will be there again through the rainy weekend. That’s what I’d be on if I were lookin’ to catch some nice crappie for the table.
Catfish action is heating up nicely before the annual Derby coming up May 15, 16 and 17. We’re hearing about all kinds of stuff working – from hot dogs to mackerel to live bait. Cache Creek has been good. Indian Island and Rattlesnake are also in the honorable mention category this week. It’s catfish time again! And don’t forget, we’ll keep extended hours for the Derby and do our best to stay in the loop with frequent updates to the Derby “Top 20.”
Bob Rider is owner of Lakeshore Bait & Tackle, 14913-D Lakeshore Drive, Clearlake, telephone 707-994-FISH (3474). Visit the store online at www.994Fish.com.
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- Written by: Lake County News Reports
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